Berni Bunnell

Written by Berni Bunnell

Published: 16 Dec 2024

50-facts-about-nikki-bella
Source: Womenshealthmag.com

Who is Nikki Bella? Nikki Bella, born Stephanie Nicole Garcia-Colace on November 21, 1983, in San Diego, California, is a celebrated American professional wrestler and television personality. Rising to fame alongside her twin sister Brie as The Bella Twins, Nikki's journey in WWE began in 2007. Known for her fierce in-ring persona and signature move, the Rack Attack 2.0, she became a two-time WWE Divas Champion, holding the title for a record 301 days. Beyond wrestling, Nikki starred in reality TV shows like "Total Divas" and "Total Bellas," and was inducted into the WWE Hall of Fame in 2020. Married to Artem Chigvintsev, Nikki continues to inspire with her story of resilience and success.

Key Takeaways:

  • Nikki Bella, the WWE superstar, overcame challenges and made history as a two-time Divas Champion, inspiring young women to pursue their dreams in sports and entertainment.
  • From her early days in California to her philanthropic work post-retirement, Nikki Bella's legacy as a wrestler, businesswoman, and role model continues to inspire and empower fans worldwide.
Table of Contents

Early Life and Background

Nikki Bella, born Stephanie Nicole Garcia-Colace, has a fascinating background that shaped her into the superstar she is today.

  1. Nikki was born on November 21, 1983, in San Diego, California, and raised in Scottsdale, Arizona.
  2. She is the daughter of Jon Garcia and Kathy Colace.
  3. Nikki has a twin sister named Brie Bella, who is also a professional wrestler and television personality.
  4. She graduated from Chaparral High School in 2002.
  5. Nikki attended Grossmont College in San Diego, where she played soccer.

Career Beginnings

Before stepping into the WWE ring, Nikki had a diverse career path.

  1. Nikki worked as a waitress at the Mondrian Hotel in Los Angeles.
  2. She pursued modeling and acting, making her first national TV appearance on the Fox reality show "Meet My Folks."
  3. She and her sister were hired as Budweiser’s World Cup Twins, photographed holding the World Cup trophy.
  4. In 2006, Nikki and Brie competed in the "Body Doubles: International Twins Search."

WWE Journey

Nikki's journey in WWE is nothing short of legendary.

  1. In 2007, Nikki signed a developmental contract with WWE and was assigned to Florida Championship Wrestling (FCW) alongside her sister.
  2. Nikki made her WWE debut on the SmackDown brand in 2008, forming The Bella Twins with her sister Brie.
  3. Her signature move is the Rack Attack 2.0, a variation of the Rack Attack move she used earlier in her career.
  4. Nikki is a two-time WWE Divas Champion, holding the title for a record 301 days.
  5. She was named Diva of the Year by Rolling Stone in December 2015.
  6. Nikki received the Slammy Award for Diva of the Year in 2016.
  7. She and Brie won the Teen Choice Award for Choice Female Athlete in 2016.
  8. In November 2015, Nikki ranked No. 1 in Pro Wrestling Illustrated's Female 50.

Reality TV and Media Presence

Nikki's charisma extends beyond the wrestling ring.

  1. She starred in several reality TV shows including "Total Divas" and "Total Bellas."
  2. After a brief sabbatical from wrestling, Nikki made her in-ring return at a live event in Puerto Rico.
  3. In June 2019, it was announced that Nikki had a cyst on her brain, effectively ending her ring career.
  4. Nikki and Brie were inducted into the WWE Hall of Fame in 2020 as The Bella Twins.
  5. After retiring from wrestling, Nikki has continued to be involved in the entertainment industry, including hosting the game show "Barmageddon."

Personal Life

Nikki's personal life is as intriguing as her professional career.

  1. Nikki is married to Artem Chigvintsev, whom she met on the set of "Dancing with the Stars." They have one child together.
  2. Before marrying Artem, Nikki was previously married to Todd Tasco from 2004 to 2007, but the marriage was annulled.
  3. Nikki stands at 5 feet 6 inches (1.68 meters) tall and has a weight of approximately 130 pounds (59 kg).
  4. Nikki comes from a close-knit family with her parents Jon Garcia and Kathy Colace, and her siblings JJ Garcia and Brie Garcia.

Philanthropy and Business Ventures

Nikki is not just a wrestler; she is also a philanthropist and businesswoman.

  1. Nikki is involved in various charitable activities, including supporting organizations that promote women's empowerment and children's welfare.
  2. In addition to her wrestling career, Nikki is also a licensed real estate agent and has ventured into other business opportunities.
  3. Known for her strong fan base, Nikki often engages with her fans through social media platforms like Instagram and Twitter.
  4. Nikki frequently appears at fan conventions and events, such as Fan Expo Dallas 2022 and Wizard World Comic Con Sacramento 2015.

Legacy and Impact

Nikki's influence on WWE and beyond is undeniable.

  1. Nikki's impact on WWE extends beyond her in-ring performances. She played a significant role in popularizing the WWE Divas division and paving the way for future female wrestlers.
  2. As one of the most successful female wrestlers in WWE history, Nikki's legacy continues to inspire new generations of wrestlers and fans alike.
  3. Nikki's influence extends beyond the wrestling world. She has appeared in various media outlets, including reality TV shows, magazines, and newspapers.
  4. Nikki has made numerous media appearances, including interviews with major news outlets like CNN and E News.
  5. With millions of followers across various social media platforms, Nikki maintains a strong online presence, often sharing updates about her personal and professional life.
  6. Known for her charismatic personality and strong work ethic, Nikki has built a public image that is both fierce and feminine, making her a beloved figure in the world of sports entertainment.
  7. Some of Nikki's notable career milestones include winning the Divas Championship twice, being named Diva of the Year, and being inducted into the WWE Hall of Fame.

Challenges and Comebacks

Nikki's career has seen its share of challenges and comebacks.

  1. Throughout her career, Nikki has been involved in several high-profile feuds and storylines, including her rivalry with AJ Lee and her alliance with Daniel Bryan.
  2. Nikki has suffered several injuries during her career, including a fractured tibia in June 2011, which forced her to take time off from wrestling.
  3. After a brief hiatus, Nikki returned to WWE in 2019, albeit briefly, due to her brain cyst diagnosis.

Post-Retirement Life

Even after retiring from wrestling, Nikki remains active and influential.

  1. Since retiring from wrestling, Nikki has focused on other pursuits, including hosting "Barmageddon" and appearing at various fan conventions.
  2. Nikki has ventured into various business opportunities post-retirement, including real estate and other entrepreneurial ventures.
  3. Despite retiring from wrestling, Nikki continues to be involved in philanthropic activities, supporting causes close to her heart.
  4. Nikki has been open about her family life, including her marriage to Artem Chigvintsev and the challenges they have faced together.

Enduring Legacy

Nikki Bella's legacy continues to inspire and captivate.

  1. Nikki's legacy extends beyond WWE. She has inspired countless young women to pursue careers in sports and entertainment, breaking down barriers along the way.
  2. As one of the pioneers of women's wrestling in WWE, Nikki has played a significant role in promoting women's sports and challenging traditional gender roles.
  3. Nikki is often cited as a role model by young women and girls around the world, inspiring them to be strong, confident, and determined.
  4. Nikki has received widespread media recognition for her achievements both in and out of the ring, including feature articles in major publications like Rolling Stone.
  5. Known for her charisma and confidence, Nikki has become a sought-after public speaker, often addressing audiences at conferences and events.
  6. Beyond her wrestling career, Nikki has demonstrated strong business acumen, navigating various business ventures with success.

Nikki Bella's Lasting Impact

Nikki Bella's journey from a small-town girl to a WWE Hall of Famer is nothing short of inspiring. Her dedication and passion for wrestling have left a lasting mark on the industry. With a record-breaking reign as WWE Divas Champion, she set new standards for female wrestlers. Beyond the ring, Nikki's ventures into reality TV and business showcase her versatility. Her role in "Total Divas" and "Total Bellas" brought her closer to fans, revealing her personal struggles and triumphs. Nikki's influence extends beyond wrestling, inspiring countless young women to chase their dreams. Her philanthropic efforts and business acumen further highlight her multifaceted personality. As a trailblazer in women's wrestling, Nikki Bella's legacy will continue to inspire future generations. Her story is a testament to hard work, resilience, and the power of believing in oneself.

Frequently Asked Questions

Who is Nikki Bella?
Nikki Bella, born Stephanie Nicole Garcia-Colace, is a retired professional wrestler, reality TV star, and entrepreneur. She gained fame in WWE, where she became a two-time WWE Divas Champion. Alongside her twin sister Brie, Nikki became a significant figure in the women's wrestling revolution.
How did Nikki Bella start her wrestling career?
Nikki's journey into wrestling began when she and her sister Brie signed with WWE in 2007. They debuted on SmackDown in 2008, quickly becoming fan favorites and key players in the women's division.
What are some of Nikki Bella's achievements in WWE?
Over her career, Nikki Bella has racked up numerous accolades. Notably, she's a two-time WWE Divas Champion, with her second reign lasting a record-setting 301 days. This achievement made her the longest-reigning Divas Champion in history.
Has Nikki Bella done anything outside of wrestling?
Absolutely! Nikki has made a name for herself outside the ring as well. She's a reality TV star, appearing on "Total Divas" and "Total Bellas," which give fans a peek into her life beyond wrestling. Additionally, she's an entrepreneur, co-founding the clothing brand Birdiebee.
What's Nikki Bella's personal life like?
Nikki's personal life has been as eventful as her career. She was famously in a relationship with fellow wrestler John Cena, with their engagement and subsequent breakup making headlines. Nikki is now engaged to Artem Chigvintsev, a professional dancer they met while she competed on "Dancing with the Stars." They have a son together.
Is Nikki Bella retired from wrestling?
Yes, Nikki Bella announced her retirement from professional wrestling in 2019. She cited health reasons and a desire to focus on her family and business ventures as the main factors for her decision.
How can fans keep up with Nikki Bella now that she's retired?
Fans can stay connected with Nikki through her social media platforms, where she shares updates about her life, family, and business projects. She also appears on "Total Bellas," providing an in-depth look at her life post-retirement.

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